Coupler arrangement
Abstract
Abstract An improved connecting arrangement (10) by which to secure one end of a drain conduit (12) to the stub conduit (13) of a drain port (14). A unique coupler (11) is interposed between one end of the drain conduit (12) and the port (14). The coupler (11) has an annular sleeve portion (20) and an annular fitting portion (21) that are joined by a generally annular transitional portion (24) which is interposed between the sleeve and fitting portions (20 and 21, respectively). The hollow interior (22) of the sleeve portion is provided with threads (25), and an annular sealing recess (26), which opens toward the interior of the sleeve portion (20), is presented from the interior of the transitional portion (24). A novel drain conduit (12) interconnects with the coupler (11). The drain conduit (12) is provided in substantially continuous lengths and has a body portion (15) with a plurality of threaded portions (16 ) provided at longitudinally spaced locations along the body portion (15). An annular spacer portion (18) is interposed along the length of each threaded portion (16) to divide the threaded portion (16) into two sections (16A and 16B). The conduit (12) is severable transversely along selected spacer portions (18) to provide the desired length of conduit (12). When thus properly severed each threaded section (16A and 16B) terminates in a sealing lip (30) formed by the severed spacer portion (18). The sealing lip (30) is frictionally received within the sealing recess (26) when the threaded portion (16) on the conduit (12) has been tightened onto the threads (25) within the sleeve portion (20) of the coupler (11). The fitting portion (21) may be affixed to the stub conduit (13) of the drain port (14) by a hose clamp (31).
Inventors
- 👤 Robert R. Guy
Bibliographic Details
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 8References Cited (Backward Citations)
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1993-03-19 | 1993-09-18 | 1994-03-20 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1997-03-19 | 1997-09-18 | 1998-03-20 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2001-03-19 | 2001-09-18 | 2002-03-20 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |